Rally calls to oppose Mulrunji decision

Angry Palm Islanders have called for a united campaign to overturn the controversial decision of Queensland's top prosecutor to take no action over the death of an island resident.

The state's Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Leanne Clare announced this week that no charges would be laid against police Senior Sergeant Chris Hurley over the death of 36-year-old Palm Island resident Mulrunji Doomadgee.

Ms Clare made the decision despite a coroner finding in September that Snr Sgt Hurley had struck Mulrunji, causing his fatal injuries on November 19, 2004, at the police station on the far north Queensland island.

His death sparked a major riot on the island.

While Palm Island residents decided how to vote in Saturday's mayoral by-election, community members rallied over the DPP's decision in the central township.

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One speaker read out a press release issued by federal Indigenous Affairs Minister Mal Brough calling on Queensland Premier Peter Beattie to ensure a review was conducted by the DPP of another state as soon as possible.

Greens leader Bob Brown also expressed his concern over the DPP's decision, saying he would ask the federal government to back a royal commission into the Mulrunji's death.

Palm Island chief executive officer Barry Moyle said up to 200 people had attended the rally, which was peaceful.

"What they are calling for is the community to stand as one and oppose the decision that's just been made," Mr Moyle said.

"What they will be doing is waiting for legal advice, which will probably happen early next week, and then once we get some legal advice, we'll be taking action according to that advice."

Mr Moyle said the controversy over the DPP's findings was unlikely to have any effect on the mayoral by-election called after Erikah Kyle resigned last month citing illness.